The Mill

Today's mill is the third one built on this site. The first two were built by George Frederick Bollinger, who came to this area in 1797 from North Carolina. He received a 640-acre land grant from Don Louis Lorimer, the Spanish commandant at Cape Girardeau. In return for the land, Bollinger agreed to develop the land and to bring more settlers from the east. He returned to North Carolina and in 1800, brought 20 families including six of his brothers and their families back to settle along the banks of the Whitewater River.

The Bridge

Burfordville Covered Bridge, built by Joseph Lansmon, was started in 1858. The Civil War, however, delayed construction and the bridge was not completed until 1868. It has undergone many repairs through the years with the last major renovation completed in 1950 by the state highway department. This is one of only four covered bridges remaining in Missouri.

Visitor Information

Guided tours of the mill are available 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday and noon to 4 pm on Sunday. A demonstration of the corn milling is included in the tour. Each tour lasts about 45 minutes. An exhibit area is located on the second floor. Groups should call (573) 243-4591 for arrangements. The covered bridge provides an excellent setting for artists and photographers. There are also 14 picnics available for day use as well as a short hiking trail that leads to the Bollinger family cemetery.